Starbucks Coffee - Kyoto Nineizaka Yasaka Chaya

This Starbucks is not just a coffee shop; it's an experience that perfectly blends modern convenience with traditional Japanese aesthetics. Located in the historic Ninenzaka district, on the path leading to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, this branch is housed in a beautifully preserved 100-year-old machiya (traditional wooden townhouse). You won't find the usual prominent green Starbucks sign outside; instead, a subtle noren (traditional Japanese curtain) and a discreet lantern with the logo mark its entrance, allowing it to seamlessly blend into its historic surroundings. Stepping inside is like entering a tranquil oasis. The interior is meticulously designed, featuring natural wood, lime walls, and soft lighting filtered by washi paper. What truly sets this Starbucks apart are the tatami mat seating areas on the upper floor, where you take off your shoes and sit on cushions, offering a unique and authentic Japanese tea room experience. You can enjoy your favorite Starbucks beverage while admiring decorative alcoves (tokonoma) with seasonal flower arrangements or hanging scrolls. While it's a Starbucks and the menu is largely similar to other branches in Japan, the charm lies entirely in the atmosphere. It's an incredibly popular spot, so expect crowds, especially during peak tourist hours. Visiting early in the morning or in the evening is highly recommended for a more peaceful experience. Despite the popularity, the staff are typically efficient and maintain the high standard of Japanese service. It's definitely a must-visit for anyone in Kyoto looking for a unique coffee experience that beautifully marries tradition with contemporary culture.

It’s a shop that I initially walked past, only to find myself circling back, perhaps because I hadn’t noticed the sign the first time around. In order to dine here, one must place orders for both beverages and food at the counter downstairs, after which drinks are collected from a separate counter at the back, while food or pastries can conveniently be picked up from the front counter. Although the seating space is rather limited, the café does offer a traditional Japanese-style seating area, which provides an interesting and authentic experience for visitors wishing to try it out. Moreover, it is worth noting that there is only a single shared restroom available in the establishment, and during busy times, it may entail a wait and might not always be in pristine condition. Therefore, I would highly recommend carrying some alcohol-based sanitizer, just in case you wish to ensure extra cleanliness for your peace of mind.

1. Unique Starbuck. Collaborate with Japanese style decoration. 2. All food and drink are good quality. 3. I think all the staff are tired with tourist. Not too friendly. I really understand with that attitude. Lots of tourist did not understand with local culture. Over tourism is big problem. 4. The toilet is tiny. And not clean. I guess its because many tourist did not use it well. 5. There is only 1 acces to 2nd floor. And only 1 access to first floor 6. Few door gate has been adjusted, because many customers had high height.

Very atmospheric and nice inside the 100+ years old traditional building. HOWEVER, even though equipped with top notch gear, the cappuccino sucks!!!! Absolutely horrendous. They have no notion as to how to operate a milk frother, it’s just a mess of warm milk and burnt coffee beans. Give it a skip there’s nice actual caffès around that know what they’re doing and probably also less busy…

I visited the Starbucks in Kyoto and had a pleasant experience. The shop has a calm and welcoming atmosphere, blending modern design with a hint of traditional Japanese aesthetics. The staff were friendly and efficient, and my drink was made quickly and tasted great. The location is convenient, especially if you're exploring nearby sights. It’s a nice spot to relax, grab a coffee, and take a short break during your visit to Kyoto.

One of the most beautiful Starbucks I've ever been to! Located in Ninenzaka, Kyoto, this branch is inside a traditional Japanese house. Perfect spot to chill after exploring the temples and shops nearby. Tip: Go early to avoid the crowd!😉🫶👌

Highly recommend adding this place to your list if visting the area! Honestly not a Starbucks person but went more for the atmosphere as it's very unique & not like anything I've ever seen before. The interior & exterior of the building was so beautiful, the staff friendly, & items we chose pretty good. If possible, I recommend going a bit before they open so that way you can find a seat you want & there's less of a crowd. We went in October on a Thursday morning, arriving about 20 minutes before they opened, & managed to get nice tatami seats 😁

Nestled along the iconic Ninenzaka slope near Kiyomizu-dera, this Starbucks is unlike any other—a 100‑year‑old machiya (traditional townhouse) transformed into the world’s first Starbucks with tatami seating

Yelp Review 2025 #41: This is a very unique Starbucks. Blending in with the rest of the buildings in Ninenzaka, this Starbucks is in traditional Kyoto-style architecture that exudes simplicity and harmony you won't see anywhere else. Natural wood, lanterns, tatami rooms, shoji, rain chain (kasuri-doi), and a little rock garden. They open at 8am. When I first passed by at 7:15am, it was quiet and there was a delivery truck in front. By 7:45am, there was a very long line! But we got the tatami room as one of the first customers of the day. You order and get merch like mugs, tumblers, stuffed bears wearing a kimono, gift cards, etc. from the first floor. If you're eating/ drinking in, go upstairs to get a table or a tatami room. There's a tiny restroom on the second floor as well...and it is T-I-N-Y with harsh lighting...and the line gets long. There are "rules" if you're using the tatami room - please follow them so you don't ruin it for everyone else. First off, take your shoes off and put them off to the side. If you're have stinky feet, please take care of that issue before coming to Japan because you'll be taking your shoes off for a lot of places. We got a hot chocolate mousse, hot matcha, quiche, and a banana walnut Swiss roll. The matcha looked and tasted way different from the American version (watered down). It's vibrant green with a strong matcha flavor that's not overly sweet. We got to share the tatami room with a lady from Seattle and we started chatting about how different Starbucks and matcha in the US and where we were at. Service was great and fast. By 8:45am, it was super packed. And that was our cue to leave.

we stumbled upon this iconic little spot on ninenzaka, a charming, sloping street lined with traditional japanese buildings, where weathered wood panels, intricate latticework, and tiled roofs give off that timeless kyoto vibe. this place had been on my list, tucked perfectly in the heart of this beautifully preserved district, where ancient architecture mingles with a steady flow of visitors. this was the spot where my partner officially fell for matcha frappuccinos, and it's easy to see why. inside, the café was dimly lit, cozy, and buzzing with energy. they warned us it'd be a wait--first for the drinks, then to find a seat. we didn't mind; it felt like part of the experience. as i waited downstairs, i caught sight of a small, peaceful courtyard through the window, a little japanese garden with a stone lantern and bamboo fencing, adding a slice of zen to the lively scene inside. eventually, my partner managed to grab us a seat upstairs (major score), and that's when the magic really hit. from our spot, we looked out through a rustic bamboo window onto the bustling ninenzaka street below. it was like a perfectly framed postcard, the charm of wooden rooftops, stone pathways, and crowds of people weaving in and out, each lost in their own adventures. inside, the air was cool, shaded, and scented with tatami, a calming contrast to the bright, animated scene outside. the matcha cream frappuccino was a rich, creamy blend with a bold, earthy matcha flavour and a refreshing chill, perfect for an indulgent treat. the iced matcha tea latte, lighter and milkier, offered a smoother, more mellow matcha taste, ideal for a refreshing, laid back sip. with seating here so limited, actually getting a spot felt like a small victory. it was a relief to finally sit down, sip our drinks, and escape the crowds for a while. in kyoto, walking around drinking and eating is frowned upon, so this café gave us the perfect retreat. sipping matchas in this historic spot felt like so much more than a caffeine break; it was like stepping into a timeless, unforgettable moment in kyoto.

Yeah, yeah I know. Starbucks in Japan? Where they have a superb coffee culture of their own, and, like everything else in Japan, it's an art form. But I drink a lot of coffee and the Starbucks in Japan is next level as well and at this location, you get the traditional Kyoto experience with tatami mats! So you have to... I was a little worried it would be impossible to get seats upstairs, but people move through quickly enough and the staff is so lovely and helpful. You also may go right on up and do a mobile order from a QR code which I wish I had known. My iced triple latte was literal perfection (tall cup is where you get it nice and strong). Such a cool experience!

Cutest Starbucks in Kyoto, Japan that is literally a temple. There's an area where you take off your shoes inside and can sit down. we got a refresher and an iced coffee that's not available in the US. This was a long commute as it's pretty deep in Kyoto but honestly worth it if you're a coffee lover like myself.

The only Starbucks in the area and right on Ninenzaka. The upstairs is fairly basic, and not particularly photo-worth imo. Matcha scone was pretty tasty, good with a sweet drink. It seems if you order a Venti, you get a special paper cup with a sakura design. Got a Japan 'Been There' tumbler, which came with a free drink, which I used for a Yuzu Citrus Tea. Note, you need to stir up the yuzu that's at the bottom! The staff never mentioned anything about it when they handed it to me, so I was just drinking unflavored English breakfast until I realized it was supposed to be fruity. 20 min wait @ 930am

This review is for March 2024. We were obviously in high season with Sakura so this location was as busy as it gets. We queued up on the first floor. The staff was very helpful and friendly. We always look for new and different Starbucks drinks in Japan than the US. Once we placed our order, my daughter headed upstairs to find a seat. I waited downstairs at the pickup area for the drinks. It did not take too long. We enjoyed the location and the beverages. It was a nice break from the crowds around Kyoto. Beautiful location inside and out.

I wouldn't normally put Starbucks on my travel itinerary, but a Starbucks located in a 100 year old traditional Japanese home in the heart of one of Kyoto's most historic neighborhoods? Don't mind if I do. Stepping through the doors of the coffeehouse feels like you've traveled back in time to the Meiji-era with it's classic tiled roof, wooden features, tatami mats, and silk cushions. I ate it all up! You place your order at the counter and pick-up your drinks down the hallway in another room that's located next to a pretty little garden area. Take your drinks and may the odds be ever in your favor if you're trying to find a seat upstairs! It wasn't THAT busy during our visit (waited less than 10 minutes to order and get our drinks), but a lot of people were not in a hurry to leave either because it was it was very hot outside and so all the 'cute' spots were taken. I would recommend to send someone upstairs to try and find a spot ahead of time. We did eventually manage to find a space big enough on the tatami mats for our party of three to enjoy our drinks. I got a mocha frappuccino and overall it tasted ok, but it was a bit watered down. My little one also got a special lemon frappuccino which tasted good. Overall, I think you come here less for the drinks and more for the experience and the novelty and it would probably be enjoyed when it's not as busy (whenever that is). I am glad we went and saw what the hype was about. I definitely wouldn't go out of my way to see it, but if you're in Kyoto, you're more than likely to be nearby as it's located on Ninenzaka, an ancient 150m stone-paved pedestrian road near Kiyomizudera.

Incredible Starbucks! Unique of its kind in the heart of gion district, Kyoto, Japan! Wooden structure makes it so beautiful and blends well with the neighborhood! Service is best of the best!

Wednesday May 3 72°F 58% Humidity Constitution Memorial Day - Golden Week Holiday It's Starbucks! You know Starbucks. Yes this location is aesthetically pleasing, but I mostly rate places based on what's on the menu. The tatami mats are cool and all, but those aren't edible. I'll give praise where praise is due. Starbucks ("Sutaba") did a beautiful job preserving this century old townhouse in Kyoto. The structure originally hosted geishas; today it's home to the Green Siren, serving coffee to tourists and locals strolling the historic streets of Ninenzaka. It resembles a house from the Taishō era, with kawara roof tiles, wooden walls, noren curtains, and inner/outer gardens. The first floor has the bakery case, merchandise shelf, registers for ordering, and the counter where drinks are made. The second floor has tables, benches, and one tiny bathroom. There are shelves to put your shoes and cushions on the floor if you want to sit on one of the tatami mats. My Oat Milk Latte tasted alright, it had the right amount of espresso shots. The consistency wasn't creamy as anticipated. The menu looks the same as any other Starbucks. So besides the architecture, nothing special really. Japan 2023 Yelp collection: yelp.com/collection/5VW1mYIyr54rstI8h9NrYQ/JAPAN-2023

A popular destination due to its architecture but nothing else is special. In fact, the popularity of this location makes it unbearable due to crowds and lack of seating control. Ordered a cake that's found in almost all Starbucks in Japan - Strawberry Merry Cream cake. The cake was absolutely delicious - easily one of the best I've ever had. However, since they serve it on a porcelain plate and there was no seating, I had to struggle to negotiate with those who were saving seats for their party that was still ordering to let me sit and eat before leaving. This location should think about restricting seating to only those who've received their food and drinks. Otherwise, they need to make sure items are done to go. I did get to sit on the tatami for a few minutes while I finished my food but I felt rushed and didn't enjoy my experience. I'd say find somewhere else to enjoy the tatami seating.

Starbucks Coffee Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya is the only Starbucks store in a traditional Japanese house with tatami seating. The house is more than 100 years old, and Starbucks has taken great lengths to preserve the culture and integrity of the building. On a Thursday at 1pm, we were advised to find a seat prior to ordering due to their full capacity. Seating is on the second level and consists of two small "traditional" areas and two small tatami-floor areas. For the tatami floored areas, you're asked to remove your shoes, in true Japanese fashion, and are provided pillows for your seating comfort. Once we secured a table -- yes, it was difficult-- we ordered our drinks. The menu is fairly global in nature, so no interesting options despite the ambiance. Service was very friendly and incredibly fast. Our drinks were delicious, as well.

2024-06-25. Starbucks. Gion. Kyoto. Gion is known for its preservation of its heritage buildings and vibe. Deep within its streets lies the world's first Starbucks with tatami seating! Also known as the Kyoto Ninenzaka Yasaka Chaya, this Starbucks location is one of the houses that have been converted into a business. The tatami seating is on the second floor and there is also regular seating up there as well. The menu is also quite different here and they sell drinks not found in any other Starbucks locations. This was one of two places we came to Gion specifically for (the other was the Studio Ghibli store, they have two locations here). Even if you're not a Starbucks fan, it's still a must visit. Be sure to remember to remove your shoes if you're going to use the tatami seating. If You would like to experience more, come dine-with-me.yelp.com I'd love to have your company... Bon Appétit!

Great experience sitting on a tatami mat sipping matcha latte. Gets crowded come early or very late for a seat.

Strolling through the ancient streets of Kyoto, thoughts naturally gravitate towards the serene beauty of ancient temples and the delicate petals of cherry blossoms. Yet, in those instances when you seek something comfortably familiar, there's a sweet surprise awaiting you in the heart of this historic city - a Starbucks that exudes the warmth of a welcoming hideaway, tucked within a classic Japanese dwelling. The friendly staff adds an extra touch of hospitality, making you feel right at home In the midst of the familiar menu, there's a hidden gem - the yuzu citrus and tea. It's the perfect fusion of tanginess complemented by a subtle touch of sweetness. Maybe it's the serendipity of being in Kyoto, or the seamless integration of tradition with the modern world that makes this Starbucks experience truly unique. It's a place where time slows, allowing you to savor not just your drink, but the very essence of Kyoto itself.

Very cool looking Starbucks! In a cool part of Kyoto, down a little cobblestone road. It's very quiet and chill which is nice, however it's pretty crowded and there's minimal seating. The food and drinks are pretty good, I just wasn't a huge fan of the chocolate muffin. they have a lot of cool seasonal options, when I was there they had different sakura treats and drinks. Since I'm from California, they had a lot of cool options here that they don't have back home like matcha scones, a lot of different teas, and even donuts! Coming to this Starbucks was an interesting and really fun experience, definitely make this a stop on your trip if you're ever in Kyoto!

I saw this spot on social media and it had been on my list ever since. It is located on Ninenzaka which is a charming pedestrian street known for its classic Japanese architecture. The building blends in with the surrounding architecture and we walked right pass it. You place your order on the 1st floor and can enjoy your coffee/tea/food on the 2nd floor. No need to mention, you need to take off your shoes when you sit on the tatami floor. It was quite an experience.

What's up: Another Instagram post brought us here! We always liked visiting Kyoto for their shrines/temples and just the overall traditional Japanese feel. So when I saw that they opened up a Starbucks as a traditional Japanese house with tatami seats, we just had to go. Access: A 3 minute walk from Hokan-ji Temple. If you're at the nearby World Heritage Site Kiyomizudera Temple, it'll be about an 8 minute walk. Environment: Unless you're paying attention and looking for it, you might easily walk right past this place. The exterior totally blends into its surroundings which is super cool! Once inside, you'll see the line to place your order. If you're planning on staying a bit and enjoying your drink here, the first thing you should do is head upstairs to find a seat. We didn't know that until we got to the counter to place our order...oops! After placing your order at the counter, head towards the back, down the hall and past the little rock garden on the side to the pick up counter. Luckily, when we went to the second floor (stairs are narrow and a bit steep. It's also one-way, so mind the signs) we managed to grab a table in the area with the tatami floor! Score!! Shoes must be taken off and you can put them on the side along with everyone else's shoes. There are several rooms to choose from but only a couple areas have the tatami seating. There's one restroom on the 2nd floor so there may be a line. Very cool decor and it totally shows the Kyoto/Japanese culture and history. I think the dim lighting also adds to the dated cultural feel. What was ordered: - Matcha Green Tea Latte (super strong matcha taste...I LOVE it) - Matcha pastry (moist and not too sweet with a good matcha flavor) - Hot breakfast sandwich (savory) Yay/Nay/Meh: Yay. This is probably the coolest Starbucks I have ever been to. I like Japanese decor and history so I love how the exterior blends into the surrounding environment and the interior is reflective of its cultural history (it is a 100+ year old building so yeah... lol). It's very crowded but definitely well worth the visit to experience the cultural vibes and even more so if you're able to sit on the tatami floor. Staff members speak English and are super polite. Credit cards are accepted.

After walking up the hill to the Kyoto shrine i picked up myself this delicious fruit ice cream. Even though they called it a smoothie. All in all it was delicious!!!! The food was delicious. The service was great. The ambiance was fast & kind.

Definitely one of the most unique and beautiful Starbucks in the world. Stopped by on a weekday morning (around 9AM) and it was packed! We waited for about 15 minutes to order and then another 10-15 minutes to get our drinks/foods. It was very hard to find seats; people were hoarding the tatami and wouldn't leave lol I got the Sakura cake (seasonal) and it was so good. The cake was airy, but moist and it wasn't too sweet.

This has to be the most unique Starbucks I have ever been to. This Starbucks was a bit hard to find but know that it is located within that beautiful village in my photo. Ask around and ppl will point u to the right direction. Inside there was Japanese tatami mat flooring rooms u can sit in to relax and enjoy ur coffee. I did not get to chill there as there was too many inside already but I did tour around inside. If u need a bathroom, this would be a good place for a rest stop. This was one of the highlight to this Kyoto trip. This Starbucks is practically a landmark spot now. MUST SEE and experience for yourself. Its known as one of the most unique Starbucks in the world.

A lovely location located in the heart of Kyoto. This place shows the authentic culture and traditions of Japan. The setting is limited, but it's an excellent location to try some coffee and pastries. It gets crowded, but they make it work with rapid service.

This Starbucks location was popularized primarily by social media/influencers. Come early! (because it gets very crowded as the day progresses)... we were first in line (it opens at 8am), and we got the best seats in the building. It was a room that only fits a family (of four or maybe up to 6). The food selection was also superb and ambience is topnotch. Great walking and sightseeing area at the Gion District. Had a great time!

I loved this Starbucks. It has to be THE COOLEST one I have ever been to (completely unbiased being Japanese lol). The facade of this store is worked into the street landscape of the Higashiyama-Ku ward to be contextual w/the surrounding buildings. Higashiyama-ku preserves the look & feel of feudal-era japan w/wood built buildings lining the narrow streets w /shops, restaurants, pottery stores, restaurants & tea houses. When you enter there is an area where people are directed to to wait in line to place there orders. The order is placed. After you place your order you go to the back of the store where your order is made, then directed upstairs to a seating area. (Kind of limited seating area). Totally cool Japanese themed Starbucks

We just tried matcha latte since we'd been eating many other food while walking streets in Kyoto. Enjoyed traditional building structure!

Not your common Starbucks. This Starbucks is located in Gion District in Kyoto, near the shopping area 15 min walk from Gion-Shijo station. I'm fascinated by this specific branch because the entire architecture inside and out is dedicated to how most of Kyoto prefecture looks like, traditional. One would easily miss or even worst, not even know this is Starbucks because of how subtle and inconspicuous it appears. The interior is simple, clean and boasts so much tradition. There are both seating areas with chairs and also seating area on the ground with pillows (again, adding on to the traditions) this is quite a cute Starbucks. The staff, like most of everyone else in Japan are extremely kind, helpful and polite. While there may be a lot of people visiting this location, but it is definitely worth the wait to grab a seat and enjoy your latte or Frappuccino in a different atmosphere from your usual Starbucks. NOTE: This branch is also very quiet, not noisy like most Starbucks. Speak at a lower tone :)

Simply the best, and most adorable Starbucks I have ever been to. You wouldn't really recognize it unless you were looking for it. It blends in so well with the rest of the small historic district, so well done Starbucks. Kudos to you! Order in the front, pick-up in the back, and enjoy your treats upstairs in either a traditional seat or in a raised totami mat floor section.

During our stay in Kyoto we visited the world's prettiest Starbucks location! Sadly I didn't have time to grab a drink here since we had a breakfast reservation at our hotel. Thankfully I've found some adorable snow globes to take home with me. They also sell dainty cup ornaments and tumblers at this exclusive location.

This is definitely the most unique Starbucks that I have ever been to and probably most people. Situated in Kyoto and only fittingly it's located in an old tea house that is over 100 years old so it keeps with the same old authentic traditional Sukiya-zukuri interior as when first built. Now the coffee is your standard Starbucks with all your same lattes and frappuccino but the surrounding is very cool and kept with the Kyoto style even though it serves modern day coffee drinks. There is a matcha latte and a caramel pear frap that I don't remember seeing in the states and probably a few other drinks as well as some Japanese sweets. The place is small with narrow walkways with cool areas to drink your coffee. There are 2-3 tatami seating areas where you sit on the floor located on the 2nd floor. The staircase that leads to this 2nd floor is very narrow and it feels as if you are going into the attic. There are a couple other rooms with standard chairs to relax. There were two areas to sit on the first floor and a barista section in the back where you pick up drinks. There was also a small bathroom off the hallway. They do offer 4 sizes instead of the usual 3 in the states. This one-of-a-kind Starbucks is easily missed as the signage is very faint and located up near the roof. The location is a couple blocks from Kiyomizu-dera temple so visit there then relax and have some coffee afterwards. This Starbucks reminds me of a Ryokan with all wood interior and wooden floors with separate rooms. Just by the sheer uniqueness I give it 5*.

Starbucks fans unite! After seeing videos of this Starbucks location, I knew we had to visit when we were in Kyoto. This Starbucks is located in a 100 plus year old building so you know it's going to be an experience unlike your typical coffee shop experience. Keep in mind that there's no lit signs that says Starbucks or the typical logo in green. We were able to follow the yelp location and was able to find I. There's an entrance way that has the Starbucks logo however you can't just stand outside the entrance. There is an employee on duty making sure no one is stopping. We came on a weekday afternoon and course it was busy. There is a line to order and another area to pick up your order. Don't speak Japanese? It's okay because there are English menu available. Menu consists of different coffee drinks, teas, and more. There were specialty items that are only available in Japan. Just get it! We decided to try their blended mango passion fruit tea because we don't have it in Hawaii. After receiving our drinks, we went to find a seat. Seating is located upstairs and downstairs in small tea rooms with tatami mats, pillows, and low tables. Super cute! Especially if you weren't able to do a tea ceremony. Yes you will need to take off your shoes in certain areas. It was really crowded however there's always a consistent flow of people coming in and out. We only waited a couple of minutes to sit. The architecture is beautiful. Though it's an old building there has been remodeling to preserve its architecture. There are no bright lights so it can be a little dim. Let's just say it's pretty hipster. Outside the windows there are views of a small Japanese garden which is peaceful looking. Overall the experience was good. I'm so glad we decided to take the time to sit, relax, and enjoy the ambiance. I'm the type of person who's always on the go and never takes the time to just chill so being able to come here and just relax was nice to do. If you're the area, I highly suggest you check it out especially if you need a place to relax after all that walking in Kyoto.

My son's girlfriend wanted to visit this historic Kyoto starbucks since she is a barista herself back in Hawaii. We caught the bus here from Kyoto station and the Starbucks was only a few minutes walk from the bus stop. It was 102 degrees out so we were glad that it was air conditioned. However, others also had the same idea so it was hot inside from having so many people. You can't go upstairs without ordering a drink first, but the lines moved fairly quickly. I do have to say, for having an entire second floor for seating, there aren't many seats. There were other customers spread out taking space without anyone else having a chance to sit and enjoy their coffee. The floor seating is very limited and there were no outlets to charge any electronic devices. The staff was extremely friendly and all our orders came out perfect. They even helped me pick out some Japanese gift cards. The history of this shop is very cool and there's even a guide you can read about the history of this location. There's even a beehive above the door of the bathroom that was originally there during renovation. This is a very cool Starbucks, but the seating arrangement needs much improvement

This was a must visit for me while in Kyoto and I don't really care for Starbucks! Haha If you haven't looked at all of the photos yet, you need to see exactly why this is a was a priority for me. It is a traditional Starbucks, but the outside looks like a traditional Kyoto building. The drinks are the same, maybe some specialty items, but pretty much the same as "home" for me. So at this store, you order in one room and move on to another room to pick up your drink. There is a very small seating area downstairs and upstairs is where the rest of the seating is. There's a traditional tatami mat room and then modern rooms with coffee tables and seats to relax and recharge after visiting the numerous shrines and temples in Kyoto!

Quality of service is great and the coffee is good but this place can get horribly crowded. The interior makes you feel as if you're in a Roykan (traditional Japanese Bed and Breakfast/Inn) with all the tatami style rooms where you can discreetly sip your coffee. Even the restroom entrance on the 2nd floor is a screen door. If you can, while in Kyoto, go to a coffee house away from here simply because the energy is crowded with tourists. But if you like crowds, you'll have fun here. This place can be hard to find because the building isn't a loud Starbucks place. The structure blends in with the rest of old town Kyoto in the Higashiyama Ward.

This Starbucks is 'famous for being a Japanese style Starbucks. They have tatami mats and customers sit on them the traditional way. Outside of that it's pretty similar to any other Starbucks anywhere in the world. I did notice that it was a bit more expensive that I thought. Outside of the expense this store is super busy! Lots of ppl want to check this place out. Guess it's kind of a tourist trap!

Kyoto Starbucks! This was a nice break spot while exploring Ninenzaka. Decor is very zen so you will definitely enjoy your stay here. Tatami seats are very popular and usually full, however, turnover is pretty quick if you are willing to wait. It is very easy to miss this place since it does not have the typical big, lit up signage that says Starbucks. I noticed it as I happened to look up and saw the subtle wooden Starbucks sign. Pay close attention to Google Maps and look around. One downside about this place is that there is a single stall bathroom for the huge amount of visitors that they get.

The atmosphere and ambiance of this location is about old Japan. Service was excellent. However, if you are planning to enjoy your coffee upstairs in one of the rooms, it is recommended that you find your spot before ordering. That is recommended by the staff. One down side to the location is it only has a one stall potty, so don't wait to the last minute.

Starbucks is located in a 100+ year old building. Nestled in an old shopping (touristy) area. There is seating upstairs. Yes the place is air conditioned. Apparently when the location opened last year the building was permitted to have air conditioning. Well they worked it out with the city and now have air conditioning. The seating both upstairs and small section downstairs. Note the the staircase to the upstairs is one way, so be sure to pick the right one. Seating choices are on a chair or on a tatami mat. If on the tatami mat you will need to remove your shoes. Overall, the service and atmosphere was enjoyable. Hope Starbucks makes more locations that are themed for the area. If nearby, 15 min from Kyoto station, come on in. Enjoy, we did!

This is probably the coolest Starbucks I've been to in Japan (I haven't been to those even cooler roasteries yet). I heard that the lines for this location can get very long, but because of COVID-19, the amount of tourists in Kyoto has severely decreased. I found no line at this location when I was there at the start of April. This Starbucks is gorgeous. It's in a 100 or 200-year-old building. You order and pick-up orders on the first floor and there is seating on the second floor. They have a tatami mat corner with seat pillows, which is absolutely beautiful. I highly recommend checking out this place if you can! Note: There are no special menu items or unique souvenirs at this particular Starbucks. You can likely get the same at other Starbucks locations in Kyoto.

Lovely place! A Kyoto-styled Starbucks. It is famously located in the popular Gion area, surrounded many other fun shops. The staff are like super polite as it always is in Japan. The only drawback is the very single small restroom, almost like the one on the plane. But who cares.

Your average Starbucks with beautiful decor. There wasn't a "long line" per Starbucks standards so I went in. Average wait time for drinks. Once you go upstairs you get crammed into a small traditional Japanese ryokan with what it seems like an endless stream of people. No place to sit after 30 minutes but I finished my drink by then. It's beautiful though. Maybe just walk through and save yourself some time.

I was very excited to hear about this place opening :) This Starbucks mixes traditional and modern style. You first order your drink and food downstairs, then proceed upstairs where you can find traditional style seating. They have a rock garden on the first floor that you can enjoy while waiting for your drinks :) I would highly recommend this place if you're looking for a uniquely designed Starbucks :)

As far as menu it's like any other Starbucks. The decor & ambience makes this place a 5star. And it's Japan, Sevice is VERY friendly & courteous. Awesome!

This is a unique Starbucks in Kyoto because it took over an old townhouse and retained its traditional look. There are typical Starbucks items, but also things unique to Japan. It will be more crowded because of tourists. We ended up buying a tea, but we really went to check out the inside. It's not an absolute must-see but if you're in the area and need caffeine, it's worth a visit!

I'm not a Starbucks guy, but this location is worth the visit. It is a fascinating cultural clash where western capitalism meets eastern traditions. Highly recommend stopping here if only to for a few minutes.

Omg this is the cutest Starbucks ever! It's shaped like a temple and they have tatami rooms where you can sit on the floor. Very chill place and a must go if you're in Kyoto.

This Starbucks is so unique ～We ordered matcha latte and enjoyed it on Tatami. I feel like this matcha latte is less sweet compared to other ones.

Probably the most beautiful and unique Starbucks I have visited! Apparently this building in Ninenzaka is a former 100-year old teahouse which was converted when Starbucks moved in. However, the interior design has maintained traditional elements and decor. It's also not obvious that this building is a Starbucks as you walk through Ninenzaka. It blends into the neighborhood unless you are actively looking for it (me!). This Starbucks is divided into 2 stories: 1st story serves as the ordering counter, and the 2nd story serves as the lounge area for customers. As you walk in, an employee quickly directs you to the counter for ordering. Once you have your drink, climb the stairs to the 2nd floor, where there is are mixture of Japanese style rooms, and Western style tables and chairs. We chose to sit Japanese style on the tatami mats and lounged with a small tea table to set our drinks down. FYI seating is limited, so if you are visiting with someone, try to have one person pick up the drink order and the other secure a seat on the 2nd floor. There is one unisex restroom available, which is behind a sliding door and actually quite small. If you try to look, there is a small nook next to the restroom. Look up at the ceiling and you will notice that it is entirely glass, because there is an old wasps' nest that has been perfectly preserved where it was found.

Employees of this location cannot communicate well in English. We tried ordering couple of drinks, but it already made the cashier so confused . We worried about the Yuzu drink being too sweet, so I asked for "half sweeten". They didn't seem understanding my request, then one of the cashiers said " this drink, no sugar", I said "no sugar? But with syrup right?" She said yes....but still didn't understand what's "half sweet" means, I said "ok, then gimme an extra cup of Ice", that's how it made them even more confused... Eventually, one employee w/ better speak English came to us and explained to the cashier...this is my first time here and may be the last time I ever tried customizing my drinks at this location.. management gotta pick up this issue.

If you are in the area go to this Starbucks. I have been to numerous stores in the FL, CA, and HI. This is the nicest and most beautiful of all of them. Old and new unite at this location. Instead of bright green, the logo is designed to blend in with the local area.

This Starbucks is very unique to Japan and even more so, the world. It is set in a traditional Japanese house with cultural heritage. I am writing this review sitting on the tatami floor without shoes from one of the four sitting rooms. It's a great way to get your fix of caffeine and culture in one spot. If you get the chance to check it out, do it.